Hernando Cortez

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Hernando Cortez was one of the bravest military leaders of all time. Born in Medellin, Spain, he was a Spanish Conquistador who conquered most of Central America. He explored to find riches and conquered by being observant of the natives. As a result, with a small army, he conquered the Aztec Empire.

In 1519, Cortez explored the Yucatan coastline. Landing in Tabasco, Cortez captured the natives. These natives wore bright colored clothing. Although, Tabasco people possessed little of value, they told Cortez of the great treasures of the Aztec Empire. The Aztec Empire had cities built of stone. Then, Cortez moved his troops northward and conquered the port of Vera Cruz. As a result, in Vera Cruz, Cortez made plans to advance against the Aztecs. He took a Tabascan woman and enlisted her help to supplement his army. Cortez used her to translate the native language to Aguilar. Aguilar was another Spaniard shipped wreck at the port of Cozumel. He had learned the language of the natives. Aguilar translated the native language to Cortez troops. They learned about the traditi...

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